Maerl Bay is a free adventure game developed with Lina Rasmusson — a marine plant psychologist. While the pixel-style graphics are a plus, the gameplay is also a draw for players who are looking for a title that’s easy to pick up and play. Plus, it has a tutorial section.

Take control of Calvin

In Maerl Bay, you play as a loveable underwater drone named Calvin. Take photos of all Maerl beds, but watch out for your battery as it drains the deeper you go into the sea. Swim back to the boat to fully charge Calvin’s battery and prevent a game over.

Bringing snapshots to the boat also increases your completion rate by a certain percentage. Photographing sea creatures will result in a temporary stun — minimizing your risk of ending the game— whereas plants will release a battery-restoration orb. However, this title lacks difficulty options or additional game modes.

Recommended for fans of pixel-style games

Overall, Maerl Bay is a relaxing game with simple gameplay, albeit one that involves a certain degree of backtracking to the boat. The art style appeals to players who have a penchant for pixel-style titles. Apart from a lack of game modes, it also doesn’t have difficulty settings.